1:17words of eloquent wisdom. The Corinthian church had an unhealthy regard for rhetorical display. Paul will focus attention on what true wisdom is (1:18–2:16; 3:18–23). In this verse he reminds the Corinthians that the power of his own preaching did not depend on such skills (2:1–5).

cross of Christ. In the opinion of those who are wise according to this world, proclaiming the crucified Lord is foolishness. Paul therefore treats “wisdom” and “the cross” as opposites (v. 23 note).